Israel And Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement Under Trump's Peace Plan With Hostage Release

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been put into action, following an announcement by US President Donald Trump. He revealed that both parties have agreed to the initial phase of his peace plan. This agreement was ratified by the Israeli government after a cabinet meeting and subsequent vote.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed that the agreement marks a "diplomatic success" and a "national and moral victory." He assured that all Israeli hostages would be returned home. Netanyahu praised Trump's leadership, stating, "I thank President Trump for his leadership, his partnership, and his unwavering commitment to the safety of Israel and the freedom of our hostages."

Ceasefire Agreement Details

According to the peace plan's first phase, Hamas will release 20 Israeli hostages in the coming days. The Israeli military is set to withdraw from most of Gaza. Trump's plan also calls for an immediate ceasefire and envisions Hamas handing over power to apolitical technocrats supervised by an international body led by Trump and former UK president Tony Blair.

Hamas confirmed reaching an agreement that ends the war in Gaza, which includes withdrawal of occupation forces, humanitarian aid entry, and prisoner exchange. They urged Trump to ensure Israel implements the agreement without delay.

Trump announced on Truth Social, "I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first Phase of our Peace Plan." He added that Israel would withdraw troops as a step toward lasting peace.

International Reactions

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the ceasefire agreement as a "great hope for hostages and their families." He commended efforts by Trump, Qatari, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators. Macron urged all parties to uphold terms strictly for a political solution based on a two-state solution.

The World Health Organization's chief called it a "big step towards lasting peace," expressing readiness to scale up work in Gaza. Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas hoped this could lead to establishing an independent Palestinian state.

Implementation Challenges

The ceasefire will only take effect after receiving cabinet approval in Israel. An Israeli spokeswoman stated that within 24 hours post-approval, a 72-hour period for hostage release would commence. Despite this announcement, strikes were reported in northern Gaza.

The United States plans to send around 200 troops to support and monitor the ceasefire deal in Gaza. A civil-military coordination center will be established in Israel to facilitate humanitarian aid flow.

Hostage Release Timeline

The release of 20 Israeli hostages from Gaza is anticipated on Sunday or Monday. The White House stated that within 72 hours of Israel publicly accepting this agreement, all hostages will be returned.

Netanyahu paused a security cabinet meeting for a call with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi congratulated Netanyahu on reaching an agreement for hostage release.

Future Prospects

The ceasefire marks significant progress towards peace but leaves questions about post-war administration in Gaza unanswered. Trump's original plan envisions a role for the Palestinian Authority after major reforms.

This development has sparked hope among Palestinians who celebrated with cheers and dances upon hearing about the ceasefire plan's implementation.